Portsmouth journalism lecturer at Highbury College launches Metalhead Magazine - and metal music fans say it's a 'belter'

Hard-rock fan Darren Sadler launched Metalhead Magazine last month, with the magazine already gaining keen readers across the UK as well as Brazil, Australia, and Denmark.

The 47-year-old has been ‘blown away’ by the support from metal fans around the world.

The journalist, who has previously worked for music magazines Kerrang! and Metal Hammer, said: ‘I like teaching journalism but I miss interviewing bands and being on the job.

‘I’ve created a magazine which looks nice, I want to treat the artists and interviews with a bit of respect and offer a platform of appreciation.’

The magazine – which has been put together over the last 12 months – runs to more than 100 pages and has no online platform.

Darren added: ‘I’m slightly old school but I like print.

‘There is so much click-bait and ads online.’

Metalhead fans have taken to Facebook to praise the new publications layout and attention to detail, with one reviewer calling it ‘an absolute belter of a read’.

The first issue also includes exclusive interviews with artists Tom G Warrior, Mastodon, Napalm Death, and My Dying Bride.

The magazine aims to keep readers updated with news and reviews of upcoming bands, as well providing features on the culture surrounding with the metal and rock genres, with the first issue featuring long reads on tattoo styles and stage fright.

Earlier this year, The News joined the nationwide campaign #BuyAPaper to support newspapers and other print publications during the Covid-19 crisis, with many businesses facing economic uncertainty due to the pandemic.

More than half a million social media accounts – including those from the Guardian and the i newspaper - took part in raising the profile of local and niche news publications.

The first issue of Metalhead Magazine is available for £8, with an annual subscription of four issues costing £32, and a supporter’s subscription – including art prints, band merchandise, and an exclusive mini-magazine – priced at £50.

The magazine is available at Metalheadmag.bigcartel.com.

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